Summary
A federal judge in Massachusetts ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to release emergency funds for SNAP benefits by November 13. This decision affects around 42 million Americans relying on these benefits during a government shutdown.
Key Facts
- The judge ordered the USDA to release funds by noon on November 13, 2025.
- The funds will provide 65% of normal SNAP benefits due to limited contingency reserves.
- SNAP benefits help over 42 million people in the U.S. buy food.
- The ruling allows the USDA to release full funds if they choose.
- The order results from legal cases involving 25 states and the USDA.
- The USDA claims lack of funds without a fiscal year 2026 budget from Congress.
- Some courts argue the USDA can use a $4.65 billion reserve to fund SNAP.
- The Supreme Court is reviewing a related decision from Rhode Island.
